Cystic Lymphangioma of the Breast: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to report magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of cystic lymphangiomas of the breast. Methods: MRI of the breast was performed using a phased-array double breast coil with a 1.5-T MR scanner. Routine T1 and T2 and postcontrast sequential imaging was performed. Results: The MRI characteristics of cystic lymphangioma in the breast are described. Conclusion: MR imaging provides for multiplanar evaluation and diagnosis of cystic lymphangioma of the breast, which is a rare occurrence.

Cystic Lymphangioma of the Breast: A Case Report in an Adult Woman

“…More than 90% of cystic hygroma cases are diagnosed by the age of 2 years, in more than 90% of cases the lesion is located in the neck or axilla [1,5]. It is extremely rare to occur in the breast and only few cases have been reported in the literature documenting their radiological appearance [5]. Therefore, we report an additional case with a typical clinical and radiological appearance, confirmed by histopathological analysis.…”

“…However, the mammographic findings are non-specific as many of the cases occur high in the axilla, rendering its visualization on mammogram difficult. While on Lymphangiomas have been classified into three subtypes: Simple (or capillary), cavernous and cystic lymphangiomas [1,[4][5][6][7]. Simple lymphangioma consists of several small capillary-sized, thinwalled vessels with an element of connective tissue [1,5].…”

“…While on Lymphangiomas have been classified into three subtypes: Simple (or capillary), cavernous and cystic lymphangiomas [1,[4][5][6][7]. Simple lymphangioma consists of several small capillary-sized, thinwalled vessels with an element of connective tissue [1,5]. Cavernous lymphangioma is composed of dilated lymphatic vessels that are surrounded by a fibrous capsule, containing lymphoid aggregates [1,5].…”

“…Simple lymphangioma consists of several small capillary-sized, thinwalled vessels with an element of connective tissue [1,5]. Cavernous lymphangioma is composed of dilated lymphatic vessels that are surrounded by a fibrous capsule, containing lymphoid aggregates [1,5]. While cystic lymphangioma (cystic hygroma), is characterized by large cystic like spaces filled with clear lymphatic fluid, that is usually lined by flat endothelial cells with well-defined margins [1,4,5].…”

“…It may be associated with other anatomic and/ or chromosomal abnormalities [1]. More than 90% of cystic hygroma cases are diagnosed by the age of 2 years, in more than 90% of cases the lesion is located in the neck or axilla [1,5]. It is extremely rare to occur in the breast and only few cases have been reported in the literature documenting their radiological appearance [5].…”